Not long ago, political campaigns leaned heavily on televised debates, newspaper ads, and a whole lot of door-knocking. Messages were filtered through journalists, press secretaries, and news anchors: carefully curated and often one-sided.
Today, platforms like X, Instagram, and Facebook have flipped that script. Candidates now speak directly to voters in real time, shaping their own narratives without waiting for the evening news.
Social media has become a game-changer in the political world, offering new ways to connect and mobilize. But with great power comes a fair share of baggage: think misinformation, polarization, and algorithms that know your political leanings better than your family does. Let’s dive into the ups, downs, and growing influence of social media in modern political campaigns.
Just two decades ago, politicians had to rely on press conferences and news outlets to get their message out. These traditional methods are quickly becoming relics of the past. Today, social media offers candidates a direct line to voters through tools like:
With social media platforms, candidates can respond to criticism instantly, post unfiltered thoughts (for better or worse), and build a personal brand that resonates with supporters—something that static newspaper ads simply can’t do.
Take President Donald Trump, for example. During the 2016 presidential primaries, he used Twitter (now X) to share controversial views and policy stances, often bypassing traditional media entirely. His tweets dominated news cycles, increased his media visibility, helped energize a loyal base, and drew public attention on his terms.
The upsides of using social media on the campaign trail are hard to ignore, from immediate access to voters to outreach strategies that don’t break the bank.
Here’s a closer look at the key advantages:
Of course, social media isn’t all rainbows and butterflies. Like any tool with perks, there are bound to be pitfalls, and social media is no exception. Below, we explore some of the most pressing drawbacks.
Misinformation can spread like wildfire, often faster than factual content. While social media can be wielded for good (think: educating voters, mobilizing communities), it can just as easily be used to mislead and manipulate.
Here are some core misinformation concerns that campaign teams should watch for:
Your social media algorithm knows you a little too well. Cat lovers are flooded with silly feline videos, while health-food enthusiasts are served endless reels of vegan meal prep inspiration. The same goes for political content.
Your feed reflects your past likes, shares, and clicks, reinforcing your existing views. Over time, this can lead to echo chambers: online spaces where people mostly encounter opinions that mirror their own. When that happens, meaningful political discourse can take a hit.
Here’s how:
If you’re fascinated by how social media is reshaping politics—and you’re ready to dive into the forces that influence public opinion, policy, and power—UT Permian Basin’s online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science is a wise next step.
Whether you see yourself as a future policy analyst, campaign staffer, lawyer, political scientist, or diplomat, this program gives you the foundation to succeed in a wide range of roles. And with 100% online courses, you’ll have the flexibility to complete your degree on your own time—without putting your work or personal life on hold.
Ready to explore where a poli sci degree can take you? Reach out today—or take the leap and apply now.
Sources:
https://uclpress.co.uk/trumps-ascent-via-twitter/
https://georgiarecorder.com/2022/06/06/georgias-high-dollar-election-campaign-battles-now-waged-in-your-social-media-feeds
https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/facebook-takedowns-reveal-sophistication-of-russian-trolls
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cly74mpy8klo
Not long ago, political campaigns leaned heavily on televised debates, newspaper ads, and a whole lot of door-knocking. Messages were filtered through journalists, press secretaries, and news anchors: carefully curated and often one-sided. Today, platforms like X, Instagram, and Facebook have flipped that script. Candidates now speak directly to voters in real time, shaping their…
Political science examines the societal, cultural, and psychological elements that collectively impact governance and political systems. With such a richly layered subject, it’s beneficial to divide formal studies into focus areas that enable students to concentrate on those topics corresponding to their personal and professional interests and goals. The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online…
If you’ve ever wondered, “what can you do with a political science degree?”, you’re in the right place. We’re here to talk about seven influential people who majored in political science. While their success can’t be solely credited to their degrees, it’s fair to say that the knowledge and skills they gained through their education…
Political science examines the societal, cultural, and psychological elements that collectively impact governance and political systems. With such a richly layered subject, it’s beneficial to divide formal studies into focus areas that enable students to concentrate on those topics corresponding to their personal and professional interests and goals. The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science—offered online exclusively at this UT System institution—allows you to tailor your program to one of four optional focus areas. Each has specified courses that give you a fuller picture of one of the following:
Below we’ll look at these areas of focus in more detail and discuss some other benefits of our online BA in political science program.
This focus area examines the American political system at the local, state, and national level. Students will investigate the structure, interactions, and roles played by each of the three branches of the U.S. federal government: executive, legislative, and judicial.
Broader in scope than the American politics focus area, comparative politics encompasses the systematic examination and comparison of political systems of America and other countries, aiming to highlight both differences and commonalities among nations. This includes a discussion of political theory and other relevant topics.
In policy administration, governmental and nonprofit entities identify societal concerns and develop policies to address them. Public administration professionals put such policies into practice with an eye toward using the most effective strategies to fulfill the policy objectives. This focus area emphasizes research and delves into political theory.
Energy policy looks at public policy and public administration from an energy perspective. This focus area touches on contemporary concerns regarding our national energy policy, such as energy production, efficiency, and renewable sources, as well as environmental policy.
Our online BA in political science program helps you hone skills that can set you up for success in many fields, or even law school, including:
See where UTPB’s political science graduates are working, plus potential career paths and salaries.
If you’re aiming to become a political scientist, you’ll need to earn a master’s degree at minimum. Your BA in political science will provide a solid foundation for this graduate education. Political scientist careers are growing at a faster-than-average rate in the U.S., and many professionals who hold the title are earning median salaries in the six figures nationally.
You don’t have to wait until you finish your online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science to enjoy all its benefits. Our program’s asynchronous online format empowers you to complete your degree from practically anywhere in the world, at your pace. You don’t have to choose between earning a degree and meeting your personal and professional responsibilities; nor do you have to overpay for your degree, as our tuition rates are among the most competitive of any accredited university.
Don’t wait—get more details and apply now!
Note: Focus areas are optional. If you elect to pursue a focus area, it will not appear on your degree or student transcript.
Sources:
https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/political-science-major-overview
https://www.britannica.com/topic/political-science
https://www.forbes.com/advisor/education/law/public-policy-vs-public-administration/
https://www.epa.gov/laws-regulations/summary-energy-policy-act
If you’ve ever wondered, “what can you do with a political science degree?”, you’re in the right place. We’re here to talk about seven influential people who majored in political science. While their success can’t be solely credited to their degrees, it’s fair to say that the knowledge and skills they gained through their education played a significant role in shaping their journeys.
Barack Obama, the 44th president of the United States, began his political climb by graduating with a degree in political science in 1983. Afterward, he devoted himself to the people of Chicago, working as a community organizer to improve housing conditions and establish job-training programs for those in need.
He then earned a law degree, and soon after, joined a law firm that focused on civil rights. For Obama, the legal world was a stepping stone to a political career. In 1996, Obama was elected to the Illinois Senate. Eight years later, he was elected to the U.S. Senate. Then, in 2008, he made history by becoming the first Black U.S. president.
Obama’s presidency was defined by significant challenges, both at home and abroad. Yet his two terms were marked by incredible achievements: the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, the Affordable Care Act of 2010, and the appointments of Elena Kagan and Sonia Sotomayor to the Supreme Court, to name a few.
Madeleine Albright’s early years were shaped by upheaval. As a child, she fled to the U.S. from Czechoslovakia after the Soviet-backed communist coup in 1948. By 1957, she had become a U.S. citizen, and two years later, she graduated with honors from Wellesley College with a degree in political science.
In 1993, Albright became the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. On January 23, 1997, she was sworn in as Secretary of State, becoming the first woman to ever hold the position. Albright was a formidable force in global diplomacy, championing the expansion of NATO, advocating for democracy in Eastern Europe, and working to normalize relations with countries like China and Vietnam.
Albright’s impact on democracy, diplomacy, and global affairs was profound. And as a unique footnote in her storied career, she appeared on the beloved show “Parks and Recreation” in 2015.
Anderson Cooper’s early life was marked by tragedy. In 1978, his father died during open-heart surgery, and a decade later, his brother Carter committed suicide. Reflecting on these tragedies, Cooper said, “I became really focused on questions of survival … I came up with this idea: I’ll just go to places that are really dangerous and I’ll learn about survival and try to shoot some stories and maybe it’ll lead to something. Even if it doesn’t, I will learn a lot about how people survive.”
After earning a degree in political science in 1989, Cooper began his news career as a fact-checker for Channel One, but the job was mundane. So, Cooper did what any sensible person would do: He took a video camera to film strife in Myanmar and parts of Africa. Cooper subsequently took the job of chief international correspondent for Channel One.
Cooper’s career took off, from becoming an ABC News correspondent in 1995 to hosting the reality show “The Mole” in 2000. In 2003, Cooper got his own show: “Anderson Cooper 360,” where for nearly two decades he’s given his take on major news stories. Anderson Cooper became a household name, and to this day, fans can catch him getting merrily inebriated during CNN’s annual “New Year’s Live” special.
Pete Wentz, bassist for Fall Out Boy, majored in political science and was one semester from graduating before dropping out to chase the punk rock dream. No, Wentz didn’t end up in politics, but who’s to say those political science lessons didn’t find their way into the lyrics of “Sugar, We’re Goin Down,” “Dance, Dance,” or “This Ain’t a Scene, It’s an Arms Race.”
Aisha Tyler stands out as the entry on this list with perhaps the most thrilling career. With a degree in political science and environmental studies, she boldly stepped off the beaten path, deciding to take a risk on her career. Her gamble paid off.
Today, Tyler is a celebrated director, actor, and comedian, whose career in television spans decades. Her accolades include hosting the hit show “Whose Line Is It Anyway?”, portraying Dr. Tara Lewis on “Criminal Minds,” and lending her voice to Lana Kane on “Archer.” Speaking with CNN, Tyler emphasized the importance of dedication: “I believe in hard work. I think that everything flows out of that … if you are doing something that you love and you put a lot of hard work into it, you will be rewarded, and that’s been the thing I’ve hewn to for my entire adult life.”
Rachel Maddow was destined for a career in journalism. By the time she was seven, she was already reading the newspaper, bombarding her parents with questions about what she had read.
After completing her bachelor’s degree, Maddow turned her attention to activism, working with the San-Francisco-based AIDS organization ACT UP. Her dedication and impact earned her a Rhodes Scholarship, making her the first openly gay U.S. resident to receive the honor. With this scholarship, she pursued and completed a doctorate in political science.
Maddow’s broadcasting career began in 1999, and after a couple of hosting gigs, she landed own radio show on the Air America Radio network. “The Rachel Maddow Show” was a hit. By 2006, she leveraged her radio success to transition to cable television.
After stints on other shows, Maddow secured an exclusive contract to be MSNBC’s political analyst in January 2008. “The Rachel Maddow Show” made its television debut that year and was an immediate hit. Today, Maddow continues to offer her sharp insights on the day’s most pressing stories.
We couldn’t leave you without mentioning one more influential politician. After earning degrees in political science, sociology, and history, Cory Booker earned a Juris Doctor — a sophisticated term for a law degree — in 1997. After law school, Booker made his way to Newark, New Jersey, and started a nonprofit dedicated to providing legal services for low-income families.
In a surprise upset, Booker won a seat on the Newark City Council in 1998. Although he lost his initial bid for mayor in 2002, he came back in 2006 and won. As mayor, Booker drew national attention for initiatives on gun control and violence reduction, among other reforms. He held the mayoral office until 2013.
In October 2013, Booker won a special election to represent New Jersey in the U.S. Senate. As New Jersey’s junior senator, Booker has been a staunch advocate for justice, co-sponsoring the First Step Act, which became law in 2018. In 2020, Booker launched a campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination. Although he suspended his campaign that same year, Senator Booker continues to serve the people of Newark and the state of New Jersey.
As demonstrated by the diverse career paths outlined above, a degree in political science opens doors to a wide array of opportunities in the public and private sectors. Regardless of the path they chose, the political science backgrounds of these notable figures allowed them to follow their passions and make a lasting impact on the world.
The University of Texas Permian Basin offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science designed to help you reach your goals, whether you’re preparing for law school or looking at other career paths.
With courses like Political Theory, Congressional Politics, and Public Policy, you’ll gain foundational knowledge of how the American legal and political systems work. Plus, our courses are entirely online, meaning that you can pursue your degree on your schedule while balancing your personal and professional commitments.
You’ve seen how a political science degree has shaped the lives of successful graduates. Now it’s your turn. Apply to our online BA in political science program and start writing your own success story: one that could change your life and the lives of others.
Sources:
https://www.biography.com/political-figures/madeleine-albright
https://depauliaonline.com/18640/focus/most-renowned-bands-and-musicians-depaul/
https://www.biography.com/movies-tv/anderson-cooper
https://www.msnbc.com/rachel-maddow-show/rachel-maddow-biography-n1157621
https://www.biography.com/movies-tv/rachel-maddow
https://www.britannica.com/biography/Cory-Booker
https://www.booker.senate.gov/about-cory
Convenience. Fear. Legal obligation. Apathy. There are many factors that impact participation in the democratic process of voting in global elections. Let’s explore some of the complex dynamics that influence voter turnout throughout the world.
Countries like South Korea have declared election day a public holiday, making it much more convenient for many voters to get to the polls. The day of the week on which an election is held can also impact voter turnout, with weekends potentially boosting voter numbers. Cyprus, Iceland, New Zealand, and other countries hold their major elections on Saturdays. Croatia, Finland, and others hold theirs on Sundays.
In early 2024, Vladimir Putin once again cemented his hold on the Russian presidency and may maintain that position well into the 2030s. While Putin took 87.3% of the vote—a landslide by most measures—it’s important to understand that voters had few other choices, as most other candidates had either been forced to leave Russia, blocked from the ballot, imprisoned, or had met untimely, suspicious deaths.
In some countries, voting isn’t just a right, it’s required by law. Nations including Australia, Argentina, Belgium, Bolivia, and Ecuador may penalize eligible citizens who do not vote with fines, denial of wages, or even jail time.
In most locations, individuals register as voters before casting their vote. The U.S. streamlined this process in 1993 with the National Voter Registration Act (NVRA), also known as the “motor voter law.” This required state motor vehicle license applications and renewal forms to include an option that simultaneously allows the applicant to register to vote, with some stipulations. As of 2024, 44 states and the District of Columbia abide by the NVRA.
Sometimes, casting a ballot requires courage. In Brazil, voter suppression was alleged in a 2022 runoff election when federal police used roadblocks to stop buses full of voters who supported a challenger to the incumbent president. The opposition candidate prevailed despite these efforts.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo, violence between supporters of opposing political parties during the country’s most recent presidential, parliamentary, and local elections led to many voters avoiding the polls. Authorities were widely criticized for not doing more to stop the violence.
While Switzerland is generally recognized as a forward-thinking country, it has one of the lowest voter turnout percentages internationally—coming in at #50 in one study. This is not due to a lack of civic engagement among the Swiss, however, but because more than a quarter of the residents of that country are foreign nationals who are not permitted to vote.
Some people simply choose not to vote because they’re fed up with politics, don’t think their vote will make a difference, don’t like their choices, or aren’t interested in taking part in the electoral process. These reasons may transcend all national borders.
Fascinated by the complexities of elections and governance? The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science—offered online exclusively at this UT System institution—provides an enlightening exploration of political systems and election processes of the U.S. and beyond. You’ll dive into courses like:
Equipped with our BA in political science, you’ll be empowered to pursue careers in government and related professions or the private sector. This degree also provides an excellent foundation for law school.
See potential careers and salaries associated with this degree.
Presented in an asynchronous online format, UTPB’s BA in political science program enables you to complete all coursework at locations and times that are convenient for you. No campus visits are required, and you can follow your own schedule throughout your studies. This flexibility means you don’t have to choose between earning a degree and giving your professional and personal commitments the attention they deserve.
Ready to become a catalyst for political change? Your journey starts here.
Apply now and help shape the future of politics.
Sources:
https://ourworldindata.org/grapher/free-and-fair-elections-index
https://theconversation.com/which-day-of-the-week-gets-the-most-people-to-vote-we-analysed-thousands-of-international-elections-to-find-out-222143
https://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/countries-with-mandatory-voting
https://www.globalcitizen.org/en/content/voting-rights-around-the-world/
A political party is a group of people who share a common viewpoint on major issues and endeavor to implement laws advancing this viewpoint at the national or local level. It’s made up of people who act as representatives and advocates for the interests of voters who share their views.
The United States has two main political parties, though this two-party system is not defined in the Constitution. Other parties exist, and some would-be politicians run for office with no party affiliation. These groups and individuals have limited clout but can disrupt the political status quo, as was the case with Ralph Nader in the 2000 presidential election and Ross Perot in 1992.
Let’s look at how political parties shape American policy—government’s official response to an issue—and governance.
Political parties, often in collaboration with think tanks, develop platforms that reflect their official stance on issues in the hopes of enticing likeminded voters to vote for their candidates. Success at the polls empowers the winning party to begin instituting those policies through the passage of laws, though not without effort and compromise, and sometimes while being stalled or stopped entirely by opposition from challengers and the voting public.
Before enticing voters, however, parties must attract suitable candidates to officially represent their ideology. After taking office, these individuals ideally continue to represent the interests of their supporters, performing the balancing act of representing their broader constituency, which may include people who don’t support them.
Lawmakers translate their platform into bills through the legislative process. The process happens with the support of fellow party members and (often) help from lawmakers outside their party, with opposing parties negotiating a compromise on some aspects of a bill to secure its passage. A party with a significant majority in both the Senate or House of Representative wields considerable power and can compel a president to sign a bill into law despite partisan protests.
Designed to provide checks and balances to governmental authority, the two houses of Congress share the lawmaking duties but must come to a consensus to pass laws. There is a clear division of labor: The House alone can originate revenue bills, impeach federal officials, and elect the president if there’s a tie in the Electoral College. The Senate oversees approval of presidential cabinet and judicial nominees, authorization of treaties, and management of the federal budget.
Political parties try to rally support around specific issues, appealing to their own senators and representatives as well as those of opposing parties (“reaching across the aisle”). Public outreach efforts sometimes take the form of rallies, town halls, and talk show appearances.
Political parties regularly hold caucus meetings to make sure all their members are aware of key legislation and concerns and to drum up unanimous support among their membership for their stated policy positions.
The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science provides an enlightening overview of American politics, including an exploration of:
Some students use our online political science degree as a stepping stone to law school and a legal career, while others pursue roles in government, education, and private business.
Offered online exclusively at this UT System institution, our BA in political science is a versatile, marketable degree built on a foundation of general education courses that help you hone broadly applicable skills. See where graduates of this UTPB program are working, as well as potential jobs and salaries associated with this degree.
Choose our online BA in political science and you’ll learn the same curriculum as our campus-based students from the same acclaimed doctoral-level faculty. In addition, you’ll have access to the same resources, including our online library, advising, tutoring, technical help, career guidance, and wellness services. You’ll have many ways to interact with classmates and professors for assistance or discussion. Pick the place and time to complete your studies, and save the time and costs of a commute.
Sources:
https://uk.usembassy.gov/role-political-parties/
https://dk.usembassy.gov/usa-i-skolen/presidential-elections-and-the-american-political-system/
https://www.ushistory.org/gov/5a.asp
https://www.loc.gov/classroom-materials/elections/presidential-election-process/political-parties/
https://pluralpolicy.com/blog/us-political-parties/
https://protectdemocracy.org/work/why-do-we-need-political-parties/
https://wwnorton.com/college/polisci/american-government12/core/ch/12/outline.aspx
https://www.ndi.org/what-we-do/political-parties
You won’t find it enshrined in the U.S. Constitution. While the tripartite structure of our government is outlined by that historic, nation-defining document, no references to political party appear within it. There’s nothing dictating the names or the philosophies of our major political parties, nor how many there should be. Democrats and Republicans rose to political dominance—with occasional but largely ineffectual challengers—starting in the 19th century, decades after the Constitution was written.
Here we’ll discuss how we arrived at our two-party system: a story that includes some plot twists, name changes, and outliers along the way.
Sharp political divisions within the U.S. date back at least to George Washington’s time, when those of differing viewpoints separated themselves into two primary factions: the Federalists, led by Washington and John Adams, and Democratic Republicans, led by Thomas Jefferson. While these factions initially lacked formal Senate organization, they played significant roles in presidential elections. During the “Era of Good Feelings,” a decade starting in 1815, the Federalist Party disintegrated, and national unity briefly emerged.
Over time, discord within the Democratic Republicans led to the rise of the National Republicans and the eventual formation of the Democratic and Whig Parties. By the 1830s and 1840s, these two parties began adopting enduring Senate customs—including seating arrangements split by party in the Senate Chamber—and clashed on issues from the Bank of the United States to slavery. The dissolution of the Whig Party over slavery led to the rise of the Republican Party, while the Democrats split along North-South lines, paving the way for the modern two-party system by the time of Reconstruction.
Most Americans alive today take the two-party system of government for granted, though there are other parties, as well as independent (no party) public officials and candidates. As of this writing, there are three independent members of the Senate. Sometimes independent candidates are able to make the ballot for a presidential election, but for the most part, they’ve had trouble making significant inroads with the voting public. Divisive figures from Lyndon LaRouche to Ralph Nader have run for president under “alternative” party banners such as the U.S. Labor Party or the Green Party, to limited support.
In 1948, southern Democrats who opposed their party’s support for racial desegregation splintered off into their own party, the Dixiecrats. Strom Thurmond ran for president as a representative of that party and scored some electoral votes, but not enough. Thurmond returned to the Democratic Party, but ultimately found the Republican Party aligned better with his views and in 1964 became a Republican. A limited number of fellow Dixiecrats followed suit, while those who remained Democrats continued to oppose civil rights issues, with many voting against the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Get the broader picture of American government from The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. Available online exclusively at this UT System institution, this program offers an exploration of the inner workings of our government branches; delves into the dynamics between local, state, and federal agencies; and provides insight into other political systems worldwide. The future educational and professional possibilities for political science degree holders are strong. Some go on to law school or a master’s program. Many find careers in the political or social sciences, government, or education.
See potential jobs and earnings associated with this degree now.
UTPB’s online political science degree provides the same caliber of education as our campus-based program, featuring identical curriculum and the same faculty of esteemed doctoral-level experts in political science. Our online program provides the flexibility to complete your studies from any location, at your own pace, enabling you to balance your academic pursuits with professional and personal obligations. As an online UTPB student, you’ll have access to a range of support services, including academic advising, tutoring, and career services. We’re committed to your success!
Don’t toe the party line—set your own agenda for the future with a flexible, affordable, marketable bachelor’s degree. Apply now!
Sources:
https://www.history.com/news/two-party-system-american-politics
https://www.studentsofhistory.com/ideologies-flip-Democratic-Republican-parties
https://www.archives.gov/files/legislative/resources/ebooks/two-party-system.pdf
https://lithub.com/president-lincolns-republican-party-was-the-original-party-of-big-government/
https://www.npr.org/sections/itsallpolitics/2015/06/25/417154906/dixies-long-journey-from-democratic-stronghold-to-republican-redoubt
To become a judge, a person must attend law school and earn a Juris Doctor law degree. Only after passing the bar exam (brutal) and spending years building a legal career can a person become a judge, assuming they possess the litany of skills needed to succeed in the role.
Notice how none of the qualifications of a judge mention anything about gender.
Many of the most notable judges are women, and today we’re going to give them their time in the spotlight. We’ll focus mainly on women on the Supreme Court, but we threw in a couple of surprise entries to keep things interesting.
We hope you enjoyed reading about these trailblazing women on the Supreme Court and other notable female judges, each of whom has stood at the forefront of pivotal legal decisions, championed human rights, and demonstrated the unwavering strength required to navigate the complex terrain of the judiciary.
If you aspire to make a lasting impact in the field of political science, consider pursuing a degree in the field. The University of Texas Permian offers an entirely online program for those interested in a career in political science:
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
Designed to empower the next generation of legal professionals, our program will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to serve communities, influence policy, and navigate the complexities of the political system.
Add to the legacy of empowered women shaping the future of the legal landscape. Apply to UT Permian Basin.
Sources:
https://americanwritersmuseum.org/ruth-bader-ginsburg-quotes/
https://guides.loc.gov/american-women-manuscript/legal-collections/women-justices-judges-and-attorneys
https://www.jsonline.com/story/communities/waukesha/2022/11/01/fans-sent-judge-jennifer-dorow-letters-gifts-during-waukesha-parade-trial/69607882007/
March 8th marks International Women’s Day (IWD), a “global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women” and a “call to action for accelerating women’s equality.” Here we’ll take a brief look at the history of IWD before exploring the present-day political dimensions of the holiday and their connection to gender equality efforts.
The first International Women’s Day was celebrated in 1911, but its origins go back a great deal farther. In the United States, one of the most significant events leading to the establishment of IWD was America’s first women’s rights convention, held in 1848. Women had been prohibited from participating in an anti-slavery event, so, led by Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott, they held their own event instead. From that gathering came the Declaration of Sentiments and Resolutions, a document heralding their call for equal rights.
It wasn’t until about 60 years later, in 1909, that American women held the first National Women’s Day to commemorate the anniversary of a protest for the rights of garment workers. This was followed in 1911 by the inaugural International Women’s Day, which is celebrated around the globe. Today, the official IWD website provides links to enable visitors to learn about and support myriad women’s rights and feminist causes.
Though women in the U.S. and elsewhere have made strides since that first IWD event, including gaining the right to vote, true gender equality has yet to be achieved. Just as one domestic example: The Equal Pay Act of 1963 was very specific in requiring that men and women with the same skills be paid equally for the same job. Yet research published in 2023 shows women earning an average of only 82% of the amount men earn—a figure that has barely budged in two decades.
Many International Women’s Day concerns are promoted through political action committees, or PACs. A PAC is a political organization that collects campaign donations from its members and channels those funds toward supporting or opposing candidates, ballot initiatives, or legislative proposals. PACs are commonly established to advocate for the interests of businesses, labor groups, or individuals with specific ideologies. These committees enable individuals to privately raise funds for contribution to political campaigns.
Just like any other movement seeking change, gender equality activists form PACs to advance their agendas. There are a variety of PACs promoting gender equality, from those dedicated to single issues such as supporting Democratic women, Republican women, or Black women for public office, to those with a more wide-ranging agenda.
Some common efforts of PACs focus on:
As previously noted, getting women—and sometimes men who support women’s issues—elected to public roles that will help them promote gender equality is a core goal of International Women’s Day, feminist groups, and PACs dedicated to advancing the rights-oriented agendas of both.
Once these women and likeminded men are elected to public office, it’s time for policy reform: persuading politicians of any gender to author, introduce, and otherwise support legislation that codifies gender equality.
National groups that have seen success with gender equality policies and strategies may share them with other countries that are falling behind. By promoting collaboration among countries, they can expand the scope and strength of their organization.
An essential part of any PAC’s mission is to educate the public about the cause they support—in this instance, gender equality concerns—and what they can do to help the organization achieve its goals. Promoting messaging around contacting elected officials and asking them to support a bill that will advance women’s rights is just one example.
The University of Texas Permian Basin offers dozens of online degree and certificate programs that can help you transcend barriers and elevate your professional and personal potential. Our online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science prepares you for careers in which you can make a difference in gender equality and beyond, such as legal and government professions.
View potential careers and salaries for this degree now.
If you’re interested in learning more about political roles that can influence the direction of public policy, you may find these online BA in political science courses enlightening:
Available online exclusively at this UT System institution, our asynchronous BA in political science program gives you the power to choose where and when to complete your coursework, enabling you to maintain your professional and personal responsibilities while earning your degree. Additionally, we offer academic advising, tutoring, career services, and various support services to you as an online student right from the start. We’re committed to empowering you to achieve your goals!
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Presidents’ Day (aka Washington’s Birthday) is always the third Monday of February. Labor Day is always the first Monday of September. And Election Day is always the first Tuesday in November.
But what is it about that day and that month that led to it being chosen for one of the most important traditions of our democracy? Let’s take a quick trip back to the mid-19th century to find out before reframing Election Day in a 20th-century context.
As was common in the decades following the founding of the United States, different states set their own rules, including when to hold elections. In 1845, Congress decided to bring some order to the process by establishing one voting day for all states—initially just for presidential elections. Most employed people were farmers, so the date needed to be one that worked best for their needs.
November was an ideal choice, since farmers were no longer harvesting but were instead selling their crops at markets, and the harshness of winter had usually not yet set in for most areas of the country. Based on typical work and worship schedules, and the need for many remote farmers to travel for as much as an entire day to their polling place, Tuesday was chosen as the best day of the week. The first Tuesday was chosen because it was early in the month and the weather was more likely to be favorable.
While agriculture will always be important to the American economy and diet, the United States is no longer an agrarian society. This and other factors have led some to question the continuing tradition of holding Election Day on the first Tuesday in November. Data from the nonpartisan Pew Research Center puts the United States in the minority among industrialized democracies that hold national elections on a weekday.
Many registered voters work or attend school on weekdays, and those activities typically fall somewhere between the hours of 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. This is also the window during which polls are open for voting, potentially posing difficulties for those who are trying to fulfill that civic duty. Prominent members of both major political parties have suggested that Election Day should be made a national holiday. This would enable a greater number of voters to reach the polls without concern about interfering with regular weekday commitments.
Any changes to when we vote remain controversial, however, as political parties and special interest groups suspect one another of implementing such changes to influence the outcome of elections. Others still prefer to honor historical tradition. As a result, little progress has been made toward creating a new national holiday or changing Election Day to another day of the week. Like daylight savings time, an idea that originated with Benjamin Franklin, voting on Tuesday has its roots in a bygone era of our country, and for the time being at least, those roots remain firmly planted in the ground.
Discover how the branches of our government work; how local, state, and federal agencies interact with one another; and how our political system compares to those of other countries in The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. You’ll explore the election process and policymaking roles at different levels of government through illuminating courses including:
What can you do with this degree? Use it as a foundation for law school, graduate studies, or a rewarding career in government and private sector roles such as:
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When you earn your BA in political science online from UT Permian Basin, you get all the quality of the campus-based program—including faculty made up of the same doctoral-level political science experts—and enjoy some added benefits. You can complete your program from anywhere, on your own schedule, while continuing to meet your professional and personal commitments. And, like all UTPB students, you have access to academic advising, tutoring, career services, and many other support services from day one. We’re here for you because we want you to succeed!
Ready? Apply to our online bachelor’s degree in political science program today!
Where did our modern philosophies and systems of government take shape? All began as theoretical approaches, or a “set of assumptions about reality that inform the questions we ask and the kinds of answers we arrive at as a result.” Political science, the study of government at all levels, laws, and political thought, has provided centuries of debate in the form of myriad evolving theories.
Contemporary methods of governing have their foundation in ancient times, when philosophers such as Plato first put forth ideas regarding government structures. Plato’s work The Republic introduced the concept of a government composed of individuals who represent the interests of the greater populace and rule on their behalf. The United States, founded more than two millennia after Plato walked the earth, is considered a republic based on his definition of the word. Indeed, “republic” is right there in the U.S. Pledge of Allegiance: “I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands …”
Aristotle, a fellow Greek philosopher and student of Plato, also espoused theories that were influential in the formulation of political science. Aristotle held respect for political structures such as monarchy and aristocracy but also felt that the potential for corruption and tyranny was great. His theory of “polity,” where all economic classes respect one another and the most capable individuals govern with the approval of the general populace, was his preferred form of government. Curiously, he considered democracy equivalent to anarchy. Aristotle ultimately refined Plato’s approach, incorporating observable facts into his political theories.
Niccolò Machiavelli was likewise considered one of the earliest political science theorists, though he trailed the great ancient Greek philosophers by some 2,000 years—an indication of the “work in progress” nature of political science. Machiavelli’s view eschewed religious beliefs in favor of reason in governance. This also meant disavowing morality in the pursuit of political goals, which centered on the acquisition and possession of power. His theories were the origin of the term “Machiavellian,” which is still used today to indicate an amoral willingness to achieve one’s ends by any means.
John Locke, a 17th century English philosopher, posited that people have “natural rights” and that government’s purpose is to protect those rights. Further, he held that overthrowing a government that did not protect such rights was a legitimate course of action. His belief that people have the right to “life, liberty, and property” was later echoed in the Declaration of Independence’s notable phrase, “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”
As times change, theories naturally evolve. Communism, for example, is a political theory, but it was said to have ended with the destruction of the Berlin Wall in 1989. Clearly, political science theories aren’t necessarily made to last, even if that is the initial intention of their proponents. Time can prove any theory impractical or just plain wrong. This gravitation toward newer, more viable theories doesn’t mean that humanity will determine one “correct” theory for all time, but it’s clear from the examples listed above that some foundational political theories still exist in practice in the United States and elsewhere.
UT Permian Basin’s online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science looks at theoretical approaches to the field in several disciplines, including international relations, political theory, and public policy. Our program includes courses covering each of these areas, including one course dedicated solely to theory:
If you’re looking to lay the groundwork for admission to law school and/or seek a career in one of many law and/or government roles, our program was designed for you. Our online BA in political science provides a broad foundation in essential areas including U.S. history, philosophy, math, and political science before shifting focus to judicial politics, the role of law and courts in the U.S., the structures and procedures of our judicial system, and judicial policymaking.
A degree in political science is a pathway to many satisfying careers, such as:
Our BA in political science program is led by the same extensively published, doctoral-level political science experts who teach on campus and follows the same meticulously developed curriculum. The asynchronous, 100% online format of our program empowers you to complete coursework from practically anywhere in the world at your own pace, offering tremendous flexibility and convenience. If you have ongoing professional commitments and family responsibilities, you’ll find our online format allows you to earn your degree without interfering with those other important aspects of your life.
Discover the lasting influence of political science theory as you build career-critical knowledge and credentials in our bachelor’s degree program!
Sources:
https://www.britannica.com/topic/political-science/Historical-development
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Machiavellian